PhD Student in microstructural analysis

PhD Student in microstructural analysis of the catalyst layer of polymer electrolyte fuel cells using scattering techniques.

The Paul Scherrer Institute PSI is the largest research institute for natural and engineering sciences within Switzerland. We perform cutting-edge research in the fields of future technologies, energy and climate, health innovation and fundamentals of nature. By performing fundamental and applied research, we work on sustainable solutions for major challenges facing society, science and economy. PSI is committed to the training of future generations. Therefore, about one quarter of our staff are post-docs, post-graduates or apprentices. Altogether, PSI employs 2300 people.

For the Fuel Cell Systems and Diagnostics group in the Electrochemistry Laboratory we are looking for a PhD Student in microstructural analysis of the catalyst layer of polymer electrolyte fuel cells using scattering techniques.

Your tasks

Your work will focus on the morphological characterization of the porous catalyst layer of polymer electrolyte fuel cells and its composition that is needed to improve cell performance and model validation and development. The porous layers will be characterized by ex-situ and operando Small angle X-ray and Neutron scattering, both with laboratory equipment and at synchrotron and neutron facilities. The project operates within a large European consortium, including academic partners, research institutes and industrial partners, and aims to create and demonstrate one of the most advanced pan-European Future Labs concept in the field of green hydrogen. At its core, it aims to connect several labs to accelerate the integration of energy materials. The candidate will work with several of these partners to develop new tools and acquire new knowledge that will be implemented in this platform. During your PhD, you will interact extensively with your colleagues within the electrochemistry laboratory, different beamline scientists, and international collaborators.

Your profile

Completed master degree in physics, materials science, electrical or mechanical engineering, chemistry or a closely related discipline, preferably with experience in microstructural analysis, microscopy and programming. Experience in scattering or imaging techniques is a plus. You have an active interest in combined experimental and data processing & modelling work and take the initiative for new solutions. You are able to work independently in a collaborative and interdisciplinary research team. Good communication and writing skills in English are required. You will be registered as a PhD student at ETH Zurich under the supervision of PD. L. Gubler with co-supervision by PD A. Morin (CEA, France).

We offer

Our institution is based on an interdisciplinary, innovative and dynamic collaboration. You will profit from a systematic training on the job, in addition to personal development possibilities and our pronounced vocational training culture. If you wish to optimally combine work and family life or other personal interests, we are able to support you with our modern employment conditions and the on-site infrastructure.

For further information, please contact Dr Jens Eller, phone +41 56 310 23 96.

Please submit your application online (including addresses of referees) for the position as a PhD Student (index no. 5422-01).

Paul Scherrer Institut, Human Resources Management, Mariusz Prus, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland